Hospice pauses to recognize volunteers

Hospice volunteers gave 800 hours of service and drove nearly 7,500 miles in 2012

Taylor Muller/@TaylorMullerKDE

Line every mile driven for Hospice of Northeast Missouri by 31 of its volunteers in 2012 and the path would lead from Seattle to the Florida Keys.

But instead of taking part in a cross-country trip, each volunteer arrives at the doorstep of someone in need of a soft hand and compassionate care.

Hospice celebrated its volunteers and the thousands of miles and hundreds of hours they devoted last year in providing care and end-of-life care for 150 families in 11 counties in northeast Missouri.

“Without the dedication of this group, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” said Terrill Roberts, volunteer coordinator with Hospice. “And we know you’re just a phone call away.”

Roberts, other Hospice staff and about 20 of its volunteers met for the annual celebration luncheon at Thousand Hills Wednesday, taking a moment to recognize the people who are out in front giving care and time.

“These are faithful servants helping those in times of critical need,” said Hospice Chaplain Paul Milliken during an invocation. “Thank you for the love and compassion they provide.”

Roberts related that in the past year, the more than 30 regular volunteers devoted 800 hours of service and drove nearly 7,500 miles to and from people’s homes.

“Every minute of your time is so appreciated,” he said.

Hospice recognized volunteers Pam Byrn for the most hours served by a female volunteer and

Sam Burkholder for most hours served by a male volunteer, with each serving 89 and 45 hours, respectively.

Volunteers Barbara Chipman and Dan Wilford were recognized for driving the most miles in 2012, with each logging 1,044 and 392 respectively.